Oliver Oakes has unexpectedly resigned as team principal of the Alpine Formula 1 team, just six races into the season.
Executive advisor Flavio Briatore will immediately assume his duties.
Oakes, 37, took charge of the team last July, a month after Briatore returned to F1 as an advisor following a long absence.
Briatore previously led the team under its former identity as Renault, securing championship titles in 2005 and 2006.
Tuesday`s announcement comes amidst speculation about the potential replacement of driver Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto, a topic discussed since the start of the year.
Oakes repeatedly addressed questions regarding the Colapinto situation during preseason testing and the Miami Grand Prix weekend.
The timing of his departure raises questions about a possible connection to this situation.
A team statement read: “The team thanks Oliver for his efforts since joining last summer and for his contribution in helping the team secure sixth place in the 2024 Constructors` Championship.”
“The team will not be making any further comment.”
Oakes became the second-youngest team principal in F1 history at 36 upon his hiring – only Christian Horner, who started at Red Bull at 31 in 2005, was younger.
Under Oakes` leadership, Alpine achieved a double podium finish at last year`s Brazilian Grand Prix.
